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Entry Level Linux Admin Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Associate Linux System Administrator is an entry level role responsible to assist in installing, configuring, monitoring, troubleshooting, maintaining and upgrading systems in our on ...

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Job Summary The Associate Linux System Administrator is an entry level role responsible to assist in installing, configuring, monitoring, troubleshooting, maintaining and upgrading systems in our on ...

New

Entry Level Linux Admin information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$52

$79

How much do entry level linux admin jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level linux admin in Chicago, IL is $52.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.32 and $61.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Linux Admin do?

An Entry Level Linux Admin is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and supporting Linux-based systems within an organization. Typical tasks include installing and configuring Linux operating systems, setting up user accounts, managing file permissions, and performing routine system updates. They also help troubleshoot issues, monitor system performance, and ensure the security and reliability of servers. This role often works under the supervision of senior system administrators and is a great starting point for those pursuing a career in IT infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level Linux administrators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level Linux administrators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar system errors, managing permissions, and configuring network settings. These tasks can be daunting without prior experience, but utilizing documentation, community forums, and internal knowledge bases can help bridge gaps in understanding. Regularly practicing command-line tasks and seeking mentorship from more experienced administrators are effective ways to build confidence and competence. Over time, hands-on exposure to different Linux distributions and real-world scenarios will significantly improve troubleshooting skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Linux Admin vs Network Support Technician?

AspectEntry Level Linux AdminNetwork Support Technician
CertificationsLinux+, LPIC-1CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentData centers, server rooms, cloud environmentsOffice networks, client sites, help desks
Industry UsageIT, hosting, cloud servicesTelecommunications, enterprise IT
Common TasksServer setup, Linux troubleshooting, scriptingNetwork configuration, hardware troubleshooting, connectivity issues

The Entry Level Linux Admin primarily focuses on managing Linux servers, scripting, and system maintenance within data centers or cloud environments. In contrast, Network Support Technicians handle network hardware, connectivity, and troubleshooting across various enterprise or client networks. While both roles require foundational IT certifications and involve troubleshooting, Linux Admins specialize in server and OS management, whereas Network Support Technicians focus on network infrastructure and hardware support.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Linux Admin, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Linux Admin, you need a foundational understanding of Linux operating systems, basic networking, scripting, and troubleshooting skills, often supported by a relevant degree or Linux certification such as CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1. Familiarity with command-line tools, system monitoring utilities, and configuration management systems like Ansible or Puppet is needed. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you efficiently resolve issues and collaborate with IT teams. These skills are crucial for maintaining system stability, ensuring security, and supporting organizational IT infrastructure.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Linux Admin job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,746 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Associate Linux Administrator

Associate Linux Administrator

Medline

Northbrook, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Medline Industries rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 245 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary:
Medline is a global healthcare company seeking an Associate Linux Administrator. This entry-level role involves assisting in the installation, configuration, monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance of systems across on-premise, private cloud, and Azure public cloud platforms.
Responsibilities:
• Deploy and manage Linux instances in cloud environments such as Azure, AWS or Google Cloud.
• Monitor and maintain cloud-based Linux servers to ensure optimal performance, uptime, and security.
• Assist with system installations, configurations, and updates across various Linux distributions in a cloud-based environment. Perform ongoing performance tuning, OS and software upgrades, and resource optimization as required. Configure CPU, memory, and disk partitions as required.
• Assist with the automation of cloud infrastructure tasks using tools like Ansible, Terraform, or similar.
• Configure and manage virtual networks, storage, and security settings in cloud environments.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic system and network issues on cloud-based systems, escalating complex problems to senior administrators.
• Monitor cloud resource usage and optimize cost efficiency by managing instances, scaling resources, and adjusting configurations.
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and file systems, ensuring appropriate access controls.
• Monitor system logs and respond to alerts, ensuring proactive incident management.
• Participate in an on-call rotation to provide incident management support to ensure system availability
• Adhere to all Medline Change Management processes.
• Train on required SOPs and have the ability to follow them.
• Manage assigned projects and tasks and ensure timely completion, meeting SLAs.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field.
• Basic knowledge of SUSE, Red Hat or other Linux Operating System
• Understands the basic concepts of scripting and programming, has the ability to write scripts and code
• Grasps the Cloud Concepts, familiarity with Azure, AWS, GCP or similar
• Has knowledge of YAML, JSON, Ansible, Chef, Puppet, Python, Terraform, Source code control or similar tools
• Self-motivated, self-starter with desire to expand knowledge and skills
• Ability to operate and collaborate across team boundaries
• Good communications skills, able to give and receive constructive feedback
• Able to take and follow direction from Manager, Team Leads and Senior administrators
Company:
Medline is the largest provider of medical-surgical products and supply chain solutions serving all points of care. Founded in 1966, the company is headquartered in Mundelein, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

What Medline Industries employees say

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About Medline

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Medline Industries, LP is the leading nationwide supplier of medical, surgical and pharmaceutical products to hospitals, nursing homes, HME providers, surgery centers, physician offices and home care/hospice settings.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Winnetka, IL, US

Year founded

1966